Oregon Department of Transportation recommends using U.S. 26 (Mount Hood Highway) as an alternative route, said Kimberly Dinwiddie, an agency spokesperson. Try Highway 26 east to OR 35, and then north to I-84 in Hood River.

But be wary: the smaller highways are icy in spots, so drivers are encouraged to slow down, leave more room between cars and exercise patience as delays and slow-moving trucks are likely.

Another alternate route uses Interstate 205 North into Washington; then State Road 14 east to Hood River and back across the Hood River Bridge to continue on I-84 east.

Although SR-14 is a detour for most traffic, oversized vehicles are prohibited from using the stretch from Washougal to Hood River for now, said Abbi Russell, a spokeswoman for the Washington State Department of Transportation.

What's considered an oversized vehicle? Any vehicle over 8 feet, 6 inches in width. The department has withdrawn other restrictions regarding height and length, she said said.

The temporary restriction is for safety and mobility concerns, Russell said, noting the highway’s curvy route, narrow lanes, and the added traffic from I-84 motorists.

Finally, logistics. Why did ODOT decided to close the eastbound lanes at exit 17 — in Troutdale — when the slide was miles to the east?

Because too many vehicles were coming off the highway at Cascade Locks, said Dimwiddie. The area could not handle so much traffic.

By closing the highway in Troutdale, motorists can be detoured to two options — either SR-14 or US 26 — instead of just one, she said.